The 271bhp Renault Clio RS16 Is Here With A Megane RS Engine And Manual 'Box

Here’s something that more than makes up for the disappointment of the Renaultsport Clio Trophy being dual-clutch auto only. Yep, Renault has at last fitted a manual transmission to a hot Clio, sourcing a six-speeder from the RS Megane. Oh, and the Megane’s engine too, meaning this dinky little hatch now has a mad 271bhp.

The body has been widened by a considerable 60mm, while each of the car’s fat arches are filled by 19-inch allow wheels. There’s a much more aggressive aero kit than on the Clio 220 Trophy to enjoy ogling, and at the back there’s a fruity Akrapovič exhaust poking out.

We first caught a glimpse of this car a few days ago thanks to an image leak. If you’re wondering where the KZ 01 designation came from, that’s the car’s codename, but it’s now called ‘RS16’ after the current Renault F1 car. It’s wearing the same ‘Liquid Yellow’ finish, too.

This is just a concept for now, but we wouldn’t be at all surprised to see a limited production run. We can expect it to be quite expensive, and we can also expect it to go after the front-wheel drive Nürburgring record currently held by the VW Golf Clubsport S.